A Concise Guide to Spring Layering
This week's newsletter delves into spring layering, offering insights on blending textures, colors, and garments to create versatile, stylish outfits adaptable to spring's changing weather.
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TLDR
This week's newsletter tackles spring layering, offering insights on navigating the season's fluctuating temperatures. It highlights the importance of selecting versatile items like vests, cardigans, and overcoats that not only adjust to changing weather but also enrich your outfit with their textures, materials, and colors. Start with a foundational layering formula—a tee, sweater, and overcoat—and experiment with different combinations for a cohesive look.
Foreword
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It’s been a minute since I posted; transparently I have been caught with work and moving to a new city, but I am excited to get back to posting.
Spring weather in Chicago means that we need to start preparing for both 70 and 30 degree days, so I put together a quick guide on layering for this transition between seasons.
Style Guide: Layering is the key to Spring
Before getting into actual examples, I think it is important to introduce the logic behind effective layering. Layering not only gives outfits an element of interest but allows you to stack textures, materials, and color palettes in a meaningful way.
Mastering layering means creating outfits that stay balanced and cohesive, even when you remove layers. This strategy keeps your look deliberate and flexible, allowing you to adjust to temperature changes without sacrificing the outfit's overall appeal.
If you find layering tough (which it often can be), its best to start simple.
My recent go-to equation for a basic layered outfit has been: layered outfit = blank t-shirt + interesting sweater + overcoat
One of the key things people tend to forget about layering is that the pieces underneath still have to play a role—they're crucial to the whole goal of the outfit. That's why I always lean towards garments such as cardigans, overcoats, cropped bits, and buttoned shirts when I'm piecing together a layered outfit.
These items are like windows to the pieces underneath them, underlining the idea that every layer is chosen for a reason and deserves its moment in the spotlight. It's all about making sure each item isn't just there for warmth or bulk but plays a pivotal role in the outfit's overall story and aesthetic.
"Interesting" sweaters and cardigans refer to pieces with unique patterns and textures - think mohair, wool, loose knit, etc. If you are interested in diving deeper into cardigans, check out this guide I wrote.
As for where to get an overcoat, thrift stores are the way. You pretty much have to try them on before buying them. I got the below one for $20.
As a side note, the straightforward formula I mentioned earlier can be applied using various garments like fleeces, sweatshirts, hoodies, and more, depending entirely on your personal style. The crucial point to keep in mind is that each layer should complement the others
For the warmer days of spring
As we get closer to summer and hit those days when a jacket just feels like too much, keeping cool takes center stage. But the same layering idea still plays—just switch up the pieces. Think tanks under sweaters, rocking vests, or slipping into lighter, baggier pants. The goal is to retain those layers without overheating.
Vests are a big deal for me in spring. You can layer almost anything underneath to suit the weather, and they seem to elevate most outfits, probably because you don't see them everywhere; people need to hop on vests.
Obviously I would recommend that you opt for one that is on the more interesting side (please no patagonia vests). One of my favorites that I own:
Another great recommendation I have are these Carhartt vests that you can find pretty easily on eBay:
I don’t personally own one but I think they make awesome spring layering pieces.
Continuing with the theme of adaptable layering, flannels/ overshirts emerge as another versatile player in my spring wardrobe. The best part? Flannels are likely already hanging in your wardrobe, making them an accessible option.
Much like vests, they are an excellent choice for light layering. They're particularly valuable on those days when you need just a hint more warmth but a jacket would be overkill.
Flannels and overshirts stand out for their distinctive colors and patterns, which can transform them from basic to statement pieces. By choosing ones with unique hues and rare patterns, you can challenge and expand beyond the conventional use of flannels.
Though flannels are often viewed as simple or foundational items, I encourage you to experiment by layering them in new ways and under different pieces. This approach not only refreshes their role in your wardrobe but also elevates your overall style by showcasing flannels as versatile and dynamic elements of your outfits.
And here's a tip: vintage flannels are where it's at. Not only do they often come in one-of-a-kind patterns and have that perfectly worn-in feel, but choosing vintage is a nod towards sustainable fashion, something we can all appreciate. Think LL. Bean, Pendleton, G.H Bass, etc. Here is an awesome guide to the tags that you can check out before your next thrift store visit.
Conclusion
That's all for this edition of Unbuttoned. I've really missed crafting these newsletters, so you can definitely expect more from me soon. Layering for spring isn't just about adding pieces; it's about creating versatile fits that adapt to the season.
Remember, every layer should be thoughtful, enhancing your outfit with cohesion and purpose.
As we embrace the warmer days, I encourage you to experiment with textures, colors, and unique pieces. I'm leaving you with what I have picked up for spring as a start.
What I have picked up recently
Warning: this section is knit heavy
If you made it all the way down here, thank you. Tune in for more cool stuff.
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The return! Great stuff as always
This is perfect timing I been trying to up my layering game